In Round 1St Kilda had controversially been awarded a win on appeal against Melbourne, but the Reds made sure the rematch didn't have to go to the judges by winning comfortably.

With the ground in poor condition a small crowd saw St Kilda kick the first goal of the game against the wind - but from there Melbourne spent the rest of the first quarter on the attack and only wasteful kicking stopped them opening up a wider margin. The visitors started the second quarter with a flourish but lacked cohesion and were soon on the back foot as the Reds kicked four goals to one.

Melbourne further extended their lead in the third when they booted 4.8 to 0.2. They had an advantage in teamwork, handball and shepherding and it took until the last quarter for St Kilda to show any form but by then Melbourne were had found their accuracy and booted five straight.